A novel form of electromagnetic transducer for continuous position sensing
in linear drive systems is described. The transducer relies on a repetitive
variation of inductance with position caused by the change of reluctance b
etween moving and static saliences of a magnetic circuit, The novelty featu
re of the transducer is seen in terms of its design which is distinguished
by a simple cylindrical modular form and allows a large sensing range. The
transducer's accuracy ana sensitivity are independent of the sensing range.
The investigations presented are focused on studying the magnetic circuit
design and the excitation of the transducer, with the aim to accomplish a l
inear relationship between the transducer output and position. A considerat
ion of the effects of core losses and motional EMF on the transducer output
has been made. Results obtained with an experimental prototype transducer
are included.